Luke 12:49-56The Present Time

Weather people tell us if it’s going to be stormy or sunny so we can plan a picnic or stay inside and read.

During the day you may think about what you will have for dinner. And, you may wonder if there will be dessert after dinner.

Do you ever count the days until your birthday?

During the summer perhaps you think about who your new teacher will be.

You may wonder what you will be when you grow up.

Jesus says we should think about the future, especially our future with God, but he also advises us to think about the present time. He advises us to be aware of what is going on around us right now. Notice things – the way sun shines through the rain causing a rainbow, the way a flower grows, the way moonlight shines through your window. Notice the pattern of stars, how a stone feels in your hand, how fresh bread smells while it is baking, and how good it feels to be hugged by your mom or dad.

Noticing and being grateful for God’s gifts is a way of living our lives to the fullest. It is how we live in the present time.

Now, this very day we can be aware and thankful for the beauty and love that is around us, living the life God has planned for each one of us.